Healing Herbs

Learn more about the healing power of herbs here, but please do not take any of this information as professional advice. If you have a health problem, you should seek the help of a qualified doctor or practitioner.

Herbs and Natural Remedies: The botanical kingdom offers an enormous and exciting range of healing powers as well as breathtaking beauty. This site offers over 200 pages of free information. Includes herb descriptions, herbs for certain health conditions, recipes using herbs, herb gardening and much more! Years in the making!

I've been studying and taking herbs since 1997 and truly believe in the effectiveness of them.
Top Selling Herbs: Ever wonder what the top selling herbs in the US are? It's the best measure of what people believe works best and for the most common problems! Here's a list with links to the descriptions of each herb. (Not a sales site, just information)
St John's Wort: Extraordinarily versatile herb: If you're feeling a little down, you could try an anti-depressant like Prozac, or some form of psychotherapy, perhaps. But more than 7.5 million Americans who suffer from depression have chosen to take an extract made from this beautiful, bright yellow flower... St. John's Wort.

Externally, this extraordinarily versatile herb is used in the healing of bruises, minor burns (such as sunburn), psoriasis, varicose veins and wounds.

I have used the oil for intense muscle soreness with great (in fact, unbelievable!) results.
Feverfew: Migraine Prevention: Are you or someone you know one of the multitude of people who suffer from migraine headaches?

Migraines can be incapacitating! They can be ocassional for some, but frequent for others.

Today I'd like to share with you a herbal remedy that can help prevent migraines...

Feverfew has been studied and found effective for the prevention of migraine headaches, reducing the number of headaches suffered by as much as 70 percent, or reducing the pain and controlling the nausea commonly experienced with such headaches. Once a migraine headache begins, however, feverfew does not appear to relieve the pain.

When I first tried Feverfew I was totally amazed with it. If you suffer from migraines, I highly recommend this herb. Learn more about Feverfew here...
Black Cohosh: Natural Herb for Menopausal Symptoms: Natural Menopausal Relief:
Studies revealed estrogen and black cohosh both resulted equally in eliminating symptoms in 4 weeks. Black cohosh may be as good as estrogen treatments. The herb can also lower cholesterol & strengthen bone.

Okay, here I'm going to admit that I am in periomenopause (shhh... don't tell). I've suffered from hot flashes, night sweats, and things like that. I bought many different types of natural remedy formulas, but when it came down to it, none were better than Black Cohosh all by itself!
Asparagus Root - Enhancing feelings of Love and Compassion: Asparagus Root: Long treasured by herbalists in China and India, it is gaining popularity in the western world as well. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is known as a "yin" tonic.

Small doses taken regularly are believed to enhance feelings of love and compassion. In India, Aspargus root is known as "Shatavari" and is taken by women as a hormonal tonic.

Asparagus root contains steroidal glycosides, which may account for its reputation for increasing positive feelings such as love, patience and compassion.

This is actually my favorite herb. The warm, fuzzy feelings you get (and keep as long as you take the herb) are wonderful.
Cleavers: Good for the skin: Cleavers is one of the most powerful restorative herbs for the lymphatic system, cleavers is beneficial in treating swollen glands, tonsillitis and adnoid problems.

Internally and externally, it is effective in the treatment of many types of inflammations including relieving skin conditions, rashes and burns.

I made cleavers tea for my daughter when she was having problems with acne, and it cleared up her face in a couple of weeks, and it stayed clear as long as she kept up with it. It became a bit cumbersome for her to drink several cups a day, so I ended up making her a tincture and then she just had to take a few drops a couple of times a day, which was much easier.
Echinacea: Immune System Support: Echinacea is a "preventative" herb. Not used in any modern commercial drugs today but Echinacea is heralded by many herbalists as one of the very best blood purifiers and an effective antibiotic. Its contains a natural antibiotic that makes it an effective, broad-based infection fighter. It is considered an immune system stimulant which increases production of infection fighting T cells. It is believed to strengthen the body's tissues and protect from attacks of invasive germs.

I take Echinacea at the change of every season and when I have the beginning feelings of the onset of a possible illness. It works every time!
Ashwagandha: Ayurvedic Medicine: The health applications for ashwagandha in traditional Indian and Ayurvedic medicine are extensive. Of particular note is its use against tumors, inflammation (including arthritis), and a wide range of infectious diseases. The shoots and seeds are also used as food and to thicken milk in India. Traditional uses of ashwagandha among tribal peoples in Africa include fevers and inflammatory conditions. Ashwagandha is frequently a constituent of Ayurvedic formulas, including a relatively common one known as shilajit.

I have used this herb in an Ayurvedic formula and thought it was very good. I don't take it regularly, which I probably should, but do recommend it.
Damiana: The "Well-Being" Herb: Damiana: (Turnera diffusa) Damiana has been hailed as an aphrodisiac since ancient times. Other folk uses include asthma, bronchitis, neurosis, and various sexual disorders. It has also been promoted as a euphoria-inducing substance at various times.

Damiana may be a potentially useful herb for some female health problems. It is known as a strengthening tonic for the nervous and hormonal systems. An alkaloid in Damiana acts like the male hormone testosterone.

Find out more about Damiana here.
Stevia: The Sweetest of Sweets: Stevia: The Weight Loss Aid that is the sweetest of sweets... Cakes, cookies, sweet breads, brownies, pudding, jellies and jams.
Safe for diabetics as it does not raise blood sugar!

Stevia is a wonderful dietary supplement used for over 1500 years as a sweetener and for medicinal purposes. Since the 1970's, stevia has been used in Japan as the main alternative to sugar, used instead of the banned aspartame in diet soda, gum and other food and beverages. Stevia is also being used as a sweetener in other countries after extensive studies proved it's safety. Stevia has been used with success to treat many ailments including diabetes, high blood pressure, gingivitis, digestion ailments, addictions, topically for acne and other skin ailments and also as a wonderful weight loss aid.

Learn more about Stevia including a stevia replacement chart (substitute for sugar) and recipes here... Stevia
Yes, Coffee is an herb...: Coffee combats drowsiness, temporarily boosts athletic performance, eases congestion due to colds and flu, prevents asthma attacks and enhances the pain-relieving effects of aspirin. It is America's most popular herbal beverage. Of course, coffee can also cause problems -- jitters and insomnia. However, the latest research says, "Coffee appears to pose no particular threat in most people if consumed in moderation."
Elderberry: Bird Flu Herb?: Yesterday I read that Elderberry is an excellent natural remedy to use in the event of the bird flu. Now, I don't know if I even believe all the hype about the strain of bird flu mutating to infect humans, but I do know that our government is heavily invested in the pharmaceutical / health care industry and they will be pushing Tamiflu (which isn't proven to work). Come flu season, the CDC will be pushing flu shots, but herbs have been sufficient for me for avoiding the flu for years. Echinacea (see above) and Elderberry are what I believe works for me every year. And, after reading about Elderberry for the "Bird Flu" I'm even more sold on it.

Learn more about Elderberry here...
Evening Primrose: Rich in GLA: The oil of evening primrose has a high content of gammalinolenic acid (GLA), which is converted by your body into prostaglandins (fatty acids that act a lot like hormones) producing a wide range of effects on your body. It supplies many essential fatty acids the body needs to maintain optimal health. Essential fatty acids are as important to good health as vitamins and minerals.
Kava Kava - The Relaxation Herb: An anti-anxiety herb, stress reliever, muscle relaxer. A robust and attractive perennial shrub with smooth, heart-shaped green leaves, kava is a member of the Piperaceae (pepper) family. A lush, leafy green plant, it grows densely and is harvested when it is approximately six to eight feet in height.

I have found that Kava does impart a slight effect similar to a glass of wine, relaxing the body, calming the tension. I don't take it regularly, but do from time to time.
Tea: Green or Black: Black or green, tea is brimming with heart-healthy benefits. Compounds in green and black teas have a healthful impact on several markers of heart disease risk, but debate continues as to which kind of tea is healthiest. Recent research suggests it may be a dead heat. In a study, green and black tea appeared equally protective against fatty arterial plaque buildup.

Forget soda, drink tea!
Chickweed - Herbal Diet Aid and more...: Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies): Chickweed was reportedly used at times for food. Chickweed enjoys a reputation in folk medicine for treating a wide spectrum of conditions, ranging from asthma and indigestion to skin diseases. It has also been reported to curb the apetitite and aid in weight loss.

My experience with Chickweed definitely supports the "reported results" in that it curbs my apetitite and aids in weight loss.
Pau D'Arco: Candida and Fungus: Readers of The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies have reported success in using it topically as a soak to cure fungus-ridden toenails. Extracts have been used topically to treat Candida yeast infections. Overall, however, the research on pau d'arco does not offer strong support for most of the medicinal claims made for it.
Ginkgo Biloba: Enhancing Memory and More: Ginkgo Biloba herb is one of the most widely prescribed herbals in Europe. It may be effective in preventing or treating many of the conditions that increasingly affect us as we age.

It improves blood circulation and may decrease the risk of stroke and heart attacks. It may help increase peripheral circulation and improve oxidation of the blood which in turn improves memory and reaction time.

We have a 30 year old Ginkgo tree in our yard. It grows very slowly, but is beautiful.

Many people use Ginkgo Biloba to enhance their memory and it does seem to work!
Herbal Gifts: Apothecary's Garden: If you have friends or family that are 'into' medicinal herbs, this would make a great gift. Fill 4-inch terra-cotta pots with a selection of Calendula, Thyme, Feverfew, Lavender and Rosemary.

First, use a marker to write the botanical names of the plants around the rims of the pots...then plant the herbs into the pots. Fill a clay saucer, 14 inches in diameter with clay granules or gravel, and arrange the pots in the saucer. Instant gift!!

You can find more ideas for herbal gifts here.
Aloe: Heals sunburns and wounds: There are nearly five hundred species of aloe, a type of plant that originated in southern Africa, near the Cape of Good Hope. The use of aloe goes back in history 5,500 years. There are pictures of aloe plants on some Egyptian temples. The Greek physician Dioscorides wrote of its benefits to heal wounds and treat hemorrhoids.
Calendula: Also known as the pot marigold. Internally and externally, a useful herb.: Calendula is a wound healer both internally and externally. It can be used to treat gastritis and duodenal ulcers and it can break your fever or alleviate menstrual cramps. Externally, it is a soothing remedy for burns and advances the healing process of sores and wounds.

Herbal uses are medicinal, culinary, decorative and cosmetic.
Lavender: The herb of love: Lavender: Its name was derived from the Latin verb "to wash" and both the Romans and Greeks scented their soaps and bathwater with the herb. In the Middle Ages, lavender was considered the herb of love.
Saw Palmetto: Shrinks enlarged prostate: Research using ultrasound has shown that saw palmetto berry extract can shrink enlarged prostate tissue. Some research has shown that saw palmetto berries may also have anti-inflammatory activity and can help reduce allergic reactions. The plant has been used traditionally as a diuretic and may also help to stimulate immune response. The herb's effect on enlarged prostate tissue is by far the most clinically important.
Herbal Beer: Yarrow Beer: Here is a recipe to make your own herbal beer with Yarrow. Research from the 60's attribute yarrow's anti-spasmodic effect as a result of its flavonoids. The plant also has salicyclic acid (aspirin) derivatives.

You may also want to check out one of my husband's sites about Herbal Beers since he's the one that brews them.
Borage: Quite a Reputation!: In days of old, borage was sometimes added to a drink and given to prospective husbands to give them the courage to propose marriage and it's reputation for invoking courage goes back a long way.

It was also used to "cheer the heart and lift the depressed spirits"... "for the comfort of the heart, to drive away sorrow and increase the joy of the minde". (A Modern Herbal) Now that's a heck of a reputation!

Current usage of Borage can be found here.
Chasteberry (Chaste Tree, Agnus-Castus, Vitex): PMS, Menopause, and More: In a clinical trial of chasteberry for menstrual cycle abnormalities attributed to too much prolactin, the herb normalized both the cycle and the levels of prolactin and progesterone hormones. It is also believed helpful for premenstrual breast tenderness, a condition linked to excess prolactin. Several uncontrolled studies in Germany have shown that chaste tree extracts can reduce symptoms associated with PMS. It may be helpful for perimenopausal women with unusually short cycles or heavy bleeding. Taking chaste berry shortly before bedtime may increase early morning melatonin secretion and improve sleep.
Fo-Ti: The Longevity herb said to treat premature aging!: The Chinese believe that fo-ti is a longevity tonic that can even keep your hair from turning gray. It has a reputation as an aphrodisiac. Traditional Chinese medicine has used fo-ti to treat premature aging, weakness, vaginal discharges, numerous infectious diseases, angina pectoris, and impotence. It is believed to restore energy and strength. It is good for your blood, liver and kidneys. Fo-ti is also considered to be beneficial as a digestive aid.
Milk Thistle: A "Staple" for your Herbal Medicine Chest: Milk Thistle helps maintain healthy liver function. This is important because the liver performs more than 500 functions in the body per day and is the last line of defense in handling toxins. The liver detoxifies poisons (such as alcohol and pollutants) that enter our bloodstream. Milk Thistle's silymarin stimulates the flow of bile from the liver, the primary function of which breaks down poisons and fats. This herb is generally highly recommended by herbalists as a "staple" in the herbal medicinal chest.
Lobelia: This herb is a powerful poison that doesn't belong on the home medicine shelf.

Similar to nicotine, it has been used in over-the-counter preparations to help people stop smoking, however, there is no indication that it's useful in this area.
Marshmallow: Marshmallow has been used in connection with asthma, the common cold/sore throat, cough, Crohn's disease, diarrhea, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), indigestion, abnormal pap smear, peptic ulcer, and ulcerative colitis.

Marshmallow (not to be confused with confectionery marshmallows) has long been used by herbalists to treat coughs and sore throats. Due to its high mucilage content, this plant is soothing to inflamed mucous membranes. Marshmallow is also used by herbalists to soothe chapped skin, chilblains (sores caused by exposure to cold), and minor wounds.
Mullien for Respiratory Problems: Mullein has a long medicinal herbal history. Early on, this herb attained a reputation as a respiratory remedy. Native Americans used to inhale smoking leaves to relieve congestion. Research says it soothes not only the respiratory tract but also the digestive system. You can also crush a few leaves in your hand and apply it on stings and scrapes as a poultice. It's soothing.
Red Raspberry: Female Health: In traditional herbalism and midwifery, red raspberry has been connected to female health, including pregnancy. It was considered a remedy for excessive menstrual flow (menorrhagia) and as a "partus prepartor," or an agent used during pregnancy to help prevent complications.
Passion Flower: Passion Flower has been used as a tranquilizer to treat tension, fatigue, insomnia, and muscle spasms. In small doses it has no known toxicity. A cup of medicinal passionflower tea can be made with 1/2 to one teaspoon of the dried herb to one cup of boiling water.
Alfalfa: For High Cholesterol...: Alfalfa has been used in connection with the high cholesterol, menopause and poor appetite. Also considered therapeutic for water retention and arthritis. North American Indians recommended alfalfa to treat jaundice and to encourage blood clotting.
Burdock: Blood Purifier: In traditional herbal texts, burdock root is described as a "blood purifier" or "alterative," and was believed to clear the bloodstream of toxins. It was used both internally and externally for eczema and psoriasis, as well as to treat painful joints and as a diuretic.
Consumer Labs: ConsumerLab.com, LLC ("CL") provides independent test results and information to help consumers and healthcare professionals evaluate health, wellness, and nutrition products. It publishes results of its tests online at www.consumerlab.com. Products that pass CL's testing are eligible to bear the CL Seal of Approval. CL addresses a growing need of consumers and healthcare professionals for better information to guide the selection of health, wellness, and nutritional products.
The Amazing Garlic: Natural Antibiotic: Throughout history garlic has been considered a powerful herb to fight inflammation, stop infections, kill parasites and restore vitality. The role of garlic as an antiviral and antibacterial is unsurpassed from ancient days to modern times. Garlic can help heal injuries like bites, cuts and burns, while quite possibly sooth headaches, lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, acne, boils, arthritis, candida, respiratory ailments, the common cold and earaches. It can protect the digestive tract by inhibiting dysentery-causing amoebas and other infections. Studies have shown that garlic may reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, help to lower total and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, inhibit platelet aggregation and reduce blood pressure.
Horse Chestnut for Circulation: Standardized horse chestnut extract is considered a valuable aid in treating varicose veins. It inhibits the enzyme hyaluronidase and makes veins less permeable and less fragile. Horse chestnut can improve the tone of veins and increase the flow of blood through them.
Comfrey: Comfrey has a long, consistent history of use as a topical agent for improving healing of wounds, skin ulcers, thrombophlebitis, strains, and sprains. Also of note is the use of comfrey to promote more rapid repair of broken bones.

Comfrey has a reputation as an anti-inflammatory for a variety of rashes. It was also used for persons with gastrointestinal problems, such as stomach ulcers and inflammatory bowel disease, and for lung problems.
Stevia: Nature's Perfect Sweetener: Here's a site that has excellent information about Stevia that I highly recommend visiting!

"Welcome to SteviaInfo.com, a non-profit project dedicated to providing accurate and credible information about stevia, the all-natural, zero-calorie sweetener..."
Ginger is the stomach remedy of choice by herbalists: Ginger: An ancient Indian proverb states that everything good is found in ginger. There's quite a bit of truth in that. Ginger is a versatile healing herb. As a child you were probably been given a glass of ginger ale when you felt sick to your stomach. Ginger is a good digestive aid and has antispasmodic and anti-nausea properties.

Ginger is the stomach remedy of choice by herbalists. It works on heartburn, abdominal cramps, flatulence, and a queasy stomach. Ginger contains compounds similar to the digestive enzymes found in your digestive tract.
Ginseng: Natural Alternative Stress Therapy: The most common use of ginseng in Chinese medicine is as a general tonic and implies that ginseng is helpful in counteracting stress - both physical and mental. Some studies have shown that ginseng standardized extracts can help people react more quickly to both visual and auditory cues, increase concentration, and improve hand-eye coordination. Not all studies have reached similar conclusions. A number of other studies have also found that ginseng increased aerobic capacity, reduced lactate levels in the blood, and lowered heart rate during exercise. A study in Korea suggested that people who use ginseng regularly may be less likely to come down with cancer, but further studies are needed. Ginseng is reported to lower cholesterol, presumably by accelerating its metabolism and removal from the body. It may help improve mood and increase the sense of well-being.
Schizandra Chinensis for Youthful Appearance and More...: Schizandra Chinensis: Also Known As: Magnolia Vine, Wu Wei Zi, O Mi Cha. In China, in the days of the Dynasties, these berries were highly valued for their ability to preserve a youthful appearance. It was said to help one become radiant. Schizandra being a mood elevator, through health and increased mental clarity, is capable of helping one experience a happier, as well as a healthier, lifestyle.
Slippery Elm: Slippery elm is often used in the treatment of inflamed digestive conditions such as colitis, diarrhea, duodenal ulcers, enteritis and gastritis. It also may soothe coughs, colds and sore throats and is an ingredient of some cough lozenges and cough syrups. In a poultice, it treats abscesses, boils, minor burn and wounds.

WHY NATURAL HEALTH CARE?

Check out Michael Moore's documentary on our Health Care System...

Watch this movie and you'll understand why prevention and natural health care are a wise choice.

I've been in the hospital 4 times in my life, and they nearly killed me 3 of those times. That's not what I went in there for!

And, consider this: You don't "catch" a disease, you create it in your life by the choices that you make!

HEALING WITH HERBS

What to expect...

The general consensus to taking herbs to correct a health problem is that it will take a month of consistent herbal use to correct one year of the time you've had the problem. If you're working on a problem you've had for 3 years, give it 3 months to correct itself. This is obviously just a guideline, but it does tend to put a bit of perspective into the use of herbs. They are not magic pills. Learn more by reviewing the 96 herb descriptions here... (with links to longer descriptions)

As for how much to take, read the labels!

The beauty of herbs lies in their ability to help your own body/mind heal itself, a process that it does most efficiently. The problem with herbs lies with the users, they have a tendency to become their own doctors. Herbalism is a natural way to supplement conventional medical care, not replace it. Learning about herbs and how they react in the body can be a dangerous knowledge if common sense rules are ignored.

Read about important precautions...

HERBS FOR WOMEN

Menopause: Black Cohosh is recommended for controlling symptoms of menopause. Beginning research indicates that black cohosh can lower cholesterol and strengthen bone, as estrogen does.

Data from a new Mayo Clinic (http://mayoclinic.edu) study suggest that dietary therapy using flaxseed can decrease hot flashes in postmenopausal women who do not take estrogen. The findings from the pilot study are published in the summer 2007 issue of the Journal of the Society for Integrative Oncology.

Menopausal women who ate 40 grams of crushed flax seed reported a 50% reduction of hot flashes, improved mood, and muscle and joint pain relief.
PMS: Vitex (aka Chasteberry, Agnes Castus) for controlling symptoms of PMS.
Hormonal Balance: Dong quai is believed to have a balancing or adaptogenic effect on the female hormonal system.
Enhances Love and Compassion: Small doses taken regularly are believed to enhance feelings of love and compassion.
Milk Thistle: Although primarily used to maintain a healthy liver, Milk Thistle has also been used historically to treat depression and to increase breast milk production. Today it is a staple of alternative medicine for pregnant and nursing mothers. However, pregnant women and nursing mothers should also always seek professional guidance prior to using any herb or supplement.

HERBS FOR MEN

This is a new section that will be updated often.

Prostate: Saw Palmetto for treating symptoms of benign prostate hypertrophy (frequent urination, restricted urine flow, nighttime urination).
Stress: Ginseng is helpful in counteracting stress - both physical and mental.
BPH: Pygeum alone has been shown in some double-blind trials to help men with BPH by improving urinary flow and other symptoms of BPH. It has also been used successfully in combination with nettle root to treat BPH.

HERBS FOR IMMUNE SUPPORT

Astragalus: A Chinese immune system booster, heals burns and abscesses, offsets adverse effects of cancer therapy, protects the heart against viral damage.
Echinacea: A preventative herb recommended to be taken at the change of seasons or if exposed to a sick person or at the onset of an illness.

HERBS FOR OVERALL HEALTH AND VIGOR

Evening Primrose: Evening Primrose supplies many essential fatty acids the body needs to maintain optimal health. Essential fatty acids are as important to good health as vitamins and minerals.
Guarana: A cup of guarana contains three times more caffeine than a cup of coffee - definitely increases energy. Healthy... that's a good question!
Red Clover: Red clover is known as an alterative agent (i.e., one that produces gradual beneficial changes in the body, usually by improving nutrition; also known as a "blood cleanser"). Especially good for women, but is also good for men.
Schizandra Chinensis: Recent popularization of Schizandra has led to it's inclusion in herbal preparations designed to be used as stimulants. Most of these contain Ma Huang, Guarana and/or caffeine. But Schizandra as an adaptogen works on a much deeper and profound level. By bringing a balance or a "homeostatis" to the organs the use of Schizandra is responsible for a harmonious condition to spread in the body.
Milk Thistle: Milk Thistle helps maintain healthy liver function. This is important because the liver performs more than 500 functions in the body per day and is the last line of defense in handling toxins. The liver detoxifies poisons (such as alcohol and pollutants) that enter our bloodstream.

HONEY AND CINNAMON

This information was sent to me by a friend...

It is found that mixture of Honey and Cinnamon cures most diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Weekly World News, a magazine in Canada, on its issue dated 17 January 1995 has given the following list of diseases that can be cured by Honey and Cinnamon as researched by western scientists.

HEART DISEASES:

Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, chapatti, or other bread, instead of jelly and jam and eat it regularly for breakfast.
It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also those who already had an attack, if they do this process daily, they are kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heartbeat. In America and Canada, various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that as age the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon revitalizes the arteries and veins.

ARTHRITIS:

Arthritis patients may take daily, morning and night, one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. If
taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors
treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week out
of the 200 people so treated practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or
move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

BLADDER INFECTIONS:

Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

TOOTHACHE:

Make a paste of one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and five teaspoons of honey and apply on the aching tooth. This may be applied 3 times a day till
the tooth stops aching.

CHOLESTEROL:

Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient, was found to
reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10% within 2 hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken 3 times a day, any chronic cholesterol is cured. As per information received in the said journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol.

COLDS:

Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days. This process
will cure most chronic cough, cold and clear the sinuses.

UPSET STOMACH:

Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

GAS:

According to the studies done in India & Japan, it is revealed that if honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

IMMUNE SYSTEM:

Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacteria and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION:

Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food, relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

LONGEVITY:

Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly arrests the ravages of old age. Take 4 spoons of honey, 1 spoon of cinnamon powder and 3 cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, 3 to 4 times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans also increases and even a 100 year old, starts performing the chores of a 20-year-old.

PIMPLES:

Three tablespoons of Honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning
with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTIONS;

Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

WEIGHT LOSS:

Daily in the morning ½ hour before breakfast on an empty stomach and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one-cup water. If taken regularly it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking of this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER:

Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month 3 times a day.

FATIGUE:

Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon power in equal parts, are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton who has done research says that a half tablespoon honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3.00 P.M. when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, increases the vitality of the body
within a week.

CAN'T HURT TO TRY IT, IT MAY WORK. NO KNOWN SIDE EFFECTS. JUST MAKE SURE YOU'RE NOT ALLERGIC TO HONEY - HONEY!

Herbs for common problems...

Diabetes: In several studies, Salacia oblonga, and other substances like it, could be "ideal" nutritional therapies for diabetes, researchers report. People often find it tough to stick with diet restrictions, the researchers note, and a supplement like S. oblonga could allow diabetics to eat a carbohydrate-rich meal without an overly high blood sugar response.

Studies should now look at the herb's effects on blood sugar control over the long-term, the researchers conclude.

Lobelia: It is believed that Lobelia, administered by a professional, may be a nurturing and supportive tonic for the lungs, applicable to a wide variety of upper-respiratory ailments particularly helpful in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis. Externally, lobelia may be useful in the treatment of arthritis, bruises, insect bites, poison ivy, ringworm and sprains.

HERBS THAT HELP YOU SLEEP

Why take prescriptions to help you sleep that cause a myriad of side effects, including dangerous ones, instead of trying alternatives, such as herbs, that work better and have no side effects???

While there are individual herbs that help, go to your favorite health food store and ask about herbal formulas designed to help you sleep. There are quite a few. Try them and see which ones work for you. I used to take "Deep Sleep" but recently asked for something "stronger". It works a little too well! I love to sleep now! And, there are no side effects.

DIY Herbs :: Tinctures and Teas

Herbal teas have long since been associated with rest and relaxation. However, if you will look at herbal teas and the overall health and wellness factor that these teas bring to the table, then you will likely run right out to purchase one or two of these herbal supplements.

Read about the different herbal teas here.

Important Considerations When Making
Teas, Infusions, Decoctions and Tinctures:

* Not all herbs are suitable for making medicinals.
* It is important to cover your pot while boiling or steeping to prevent the aromatic oils from evaporating into the air. A lid will cause the steam to condense back into the water.
* Use a glass or ceramic container. Aluminum, iron, tin or other metals will leach into the tea. Although copper and stainless steel may be okay, herbalists recommend you use clean glass, ceramic, pottery or unchipped enameled pot.
* Use pure water. Fresh spring water or distilled water is best.
* Boil the water first, then remove it from the heat and add the herb or pour over the herb.
* Strain the finished tea before capping and storing.
* Refrigerate if kept for more than a few hours.

I used to make a lot of my own tinctures, decoctions and teas, but these days my time is very limited and I only make a few. I buy the rest of them online or in my local health store.

Learn more about making your own herbal teas >>

Speaking of Tea: Chamomile Tea

Both types of chamomile have traditionally been used in tea to treat digestive distress including stomachache, cramps, colitis, and flatulence. Chamomile has a long-standing reputation as being good for almost anything that might ail a body. Millions of children have learned about one of its most widespread uses, treating indigestion due to dietary indiscretion, from Beatrix Potter's The Tale of Peter Rabbit.

Pictures of herbs from Flickr

Echinacea

Bilberry

Basil

Blooming Chives

Motherwort

Pink Yarrow

Comfrey

Chinese Herb Shop

Herb Aerogarden

Borage

Calendula

Lemon Balm

Black Cohosh

StJohns Wort

Bronze Fennel

Feverfew

Roots of Healing Herbs

Baloon Flower

Huanqi

Thistle

Hyssop

Garcinia

Lavender plants

Basil

Field of Barley

Common Mullien

Jewel Weed

Marsh Marigold

Abbeville Road florist again by hedgiecc

Rosemary, purple primroses

Leadwort

Passion flower

St John's Wort

Lanzhou Lily - Chinese tonic herb

Creeping Charlie

Burdock

Sweet Woodruff

Wild growing foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

Horehound

Lemon Balm

Speedwell (Veronica officinalis)

Star of Bethlehem

Chamomile

Lady's Mantle

Calendula

Chives in full bloom.

Gerbera

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Herbs and Natural Remedies Store

Choosing where to buy your herbs and herbal products can be a little difficult. I recommend buying herbal products that are "Standardized". This is shown on the label.

More and more herbs are being sold as standardized extracts. These products contain a specific concentration of one or more "marker" compounds-- substances believed to be the active ingredients that contribute to an herb's therapeutic effects, explains herbal expert Adriane Fugh-Berman, M.D., of the National Women's Health Network.

When it comes to bulk herbs, your choice is a bit more difficult. Herbal products are made from plants that have medicinal properties. Light, air and moisture all speed the deterioration of dried plants and rob them of their usefulness. The most destructive process is oxidation -- that is, reactions with oxygen that change the plants' chemistry.

Learn more here:
http://herbsandnaturalremedies.com/where-to-buy-herbs.htm

Random House Book of Herbs

Price: $5.98

Designed to give gardeners and cooks who are passioante about herbs ideas for choosing, planting, and maintaining a selection of some of the finest he... more »

Herbs For Kids Immune Support - Echinacea/Golden Root Blend 1 oz, 1 oz

Price: $5.59

NATURAL DEFENSE IMMUNE SUPPORT Echinacea/ Goldenseal Great Tasting Blackberry Flavor HERBS FOR KIDS 1 FL. OZ. (30 ml)

Menopause Plus Formula - 60 tab

Price: $17.99

Emerita?s Menopause Plus Formula is designed to be an all-in-one oral formula for the menopause transition. While many menopause supplements are singl... more »

Learn about herbs...

Knowledge is power!

I have quite a collection of books on the topic of herbs, and am a regular buyer at Amazon... Here's some of what they have to offer.

Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs

This is one of my most favorite books on herbs. It is an interesting read with facts about herbal healing, herb gardening, crafts and even includes folklore. Beautiful pictures. Great Book! I highly recommend it.

Amazon Price: (as of 07/19/2008)

Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition: A Practical A-to-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs & Food Supplements A-To-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies)

by Phyllis A. Balch

Amazon Price: (as of 07/19/2008)

The Green Pharmacy: The Ultimate Compendium Of Natural Remedies From The World's Foremost Authority On Healing Herbs (Green Pharmacy)

by James A. Duke

Amazon Price: $7.99 (as of 07/19/2008)

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